Collateral Damage — Alice K. Boatwright

In these three linked novellas, Boatwright explores the lasting effects of the Vietnam War on those living in its shadow-both those who fought and those who didn't. These moving stories from one of American history's most divisive eras show us that Vietnam may not be as far behind us as we think. Who goes to war and why-and the consequences for them and for the people who love them-are issues that haunt us to this day. 1968: Getting Out: When Toby Woodruff is drafted, he tries to find a middle ground between "going in" and "getting out" of the war, and nearly loses his life. 1982: If I Should Stay: A Thanksgiving celebration brings out the tensions in the Percy family as they all try to put the 1960s and the war behind them. 1996: Leaving Vietnam: When Vietnam begins to reopen to the West, Sarah Shepherd seizes a chance to see the world as her brother Walter last glimpsed it. "These are engrossing stories told with considerable artistry, full of recognition and sympathy." -Diane Johnson, author of Le Divorce.